In recent years, local governments across the U.S. have worked hard to curb the growing trend of texting-related accidents, but the arrival of new and more feature-rich mobile devices have posed a challenge to their efforts.

Just as rest stops give road-weary, long-distance drivers a rest from the road, New York's "texting zones" aim to encourage hardcore texters to pull over before writing a message on their mobile devices. Drivers will be alerted to the 91 new zones via 298 signs strategically placed along state highways.

While this measure may seem like a concession to dangerous drivers, in fact, New York has recently increased its fines for texting offenses. Those caught texting and driving will face a $50 to $150 fine for a first offense, up to $200 for a second offense within 18 months and up to $400 for a third offense, according to the states' Department of Motor Vehicles.

During a press briefing held in front of a roadside display that featured the new signs, Gov. Cuomo said in a release. "These Zones will be identified with signs along the thruway and state highways, reminding drivers that there is a nearby opportunity for them to legally and safely use their phone. With this new effort, we are sending a clear message to drivers that there is no excuse to take your hands off the wheel and eyes off the road because your text can wait until the next texting zone.”

What do you think of texting zones? Are they a good idea? Give us your take in the comments, below.

5 Apps to Prevent Texting while Driving

DriveOFF

The Android app by car insurance company Esure can detect when drivers are traveling at more than 10 mph, and will shut off other apps that could be distracting, as well as temporarily halt incoming calls and text messages. The free app also displays a static screensaver, that gives your teen even less of a reason to glance at their phone.

DriveMode

This app from AT&T, a company that's been particularly vocal about the dangers of texting and driving, automatically launches once the car is moving at more than 25 mph. The app responds to all incoming texts and emails, letting the sender know the recipient is driving and will get back to them soon. All beeps and other tempting sounds that indicate a new message will be temporarily disabled. Any calls to the phone are sent directly to voicemail. The free app is available for AT&T customers with Android and BlackBerry devices.

TextBuster

The TextBuster system requires the installment of a hardware device into your teen's car. The password-protected app notifies the hardware every time they enter their car and temporarily disables text messaging, email and Internet access while the vehicle is moving. The phone can still make and receive calls, and the GPS mapping functions still work, so this app might be best for a driver with some self-control. The free app is available for Android devices. The hardware device needed to use the app is currently on sale for $179 from $199.95.

DriveScribe

This free app turns cellphones into safe-driving devices and is a great tool for parents who want a more hands-on approach when it comes to their teens and distracted driving. DriveScribe monitors the driver's speed, and blocks text messages and calls while the car is in motion. The app will also tell drivers to slow down if they're going too fast. It's up to the driver to tap "start trip" before driving, then "end trip" when reaching the destination. Parents can also access a report to see if the driver exceeded speed limits or ran any stop signs.

Canary

This app lets parents see their child's cellphone use in real time, so they can know if their son or daughter uses the phone while driving more than 12 mph. The app also records times when the cellphone was used, and sends parents a warning if their teen drives into an area they've established as off-limits. Parents will also be notified if their teen disables Canary. The free app is available for iOS and Android devices.

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